We’ve all heard (or said) it before:
“I just don’t have time to cook healthy meals.”
But here’s the thing:
If you’re willing to wait 5–10 minutes for food at a takeaway shop but claim you don’t have 5–10 minutes to prepare a nutritious meal at home, then it’s not a time issue — it’s a matter of priorities.
And that shift in mindset can be the key to unlocking a healthier, more balanced life.
⏱ We All Have Time — It’s How We Use It
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to feel like there’s no time left for things like cooking or meal planning. Between work, commuting, family, and endless to-dos, cooking often gets pushed aside.
But here’s the truth:
If you’re already spending 5–10 minutes waiting for fast food, you have the time to cook — you’re just spending it differently.
Whether it’s a drive-thru line, delivery wait time, or standing in a takeaway queue — those minutes add up. Instead, you could be using that same time to whip up a quick healthy meal at home.
🧠 The Real Issue: Mindset Over Minutes
Fast food feels easy because it’s familiar and requires little thought. But the reality is, healthy eating habits don’t require hours in the kitchen. You just need a shift in mindset and a few go-to recipes.
💡 A Wow Moment: From Excuse to Action
I once shared (and keep sharing it with my clients) this perspective with someone who felt constantly overwhelmed by their schedule. When I told them:
“If you can wait 10 minutes for fast food, you can cook a nutritious meal in the same time.”
It hit them hard. Total “wow” moment.
They weren’t lazy. They didn’t lack willpower.
They simply hadn’t looked at it this way before.
✅ How to Start Making Nutrition a Priority (Without Overhauling Your Life)
You don’t need to become a gourmet chef or spend hours meal-prepping. Try these small shifts:
- Keep it simple. Eggs, toast, and avocado = a 5-minute meal.
- Batch prep. Chop veggies or cook grains in advance.
- Stock smart. Keep healthy staples (frozen veggies, canned beans, whole grains) on hand.
- Set a goal. Even 2–3 home-cooked meals a week is progress.
💬 Final Thought:
Choosing convenience over nourishment now might save you a few minutes today — but it could cost your health long-term. Also, choosing convenience once in a while is fine — but if it becomes a pattern, it can hurt your health, wallet, and energy.
Rethink the “I Don’t Have Time” Story. By rethinking how you use your time, you can take small, consistent steps toward better energy, clearer thinking, and a stronger body.
So next time you’re waiting at a takeaway counter or scrolling through delivery apps, ask yourself:
“Do I really not have time… or is it time to reprioritise?”
